23 Hidden Gems in ILLINOIS (Exquisite, Fun, & Exciting)
The state of Illinois is famous for various reasons, including Abraham Lincoln and deep-dish pizza.
In addition to these foundational elements of American society, the Prairie State also boasts many hidden gems that may go unnoticed by tourists or those unfamiliar with the terrain.
From grand museums to quaint music shops and exotic gardens, Illinois has something for everybody to enjoy.
Whether you’re a music genius, outdoor enthusiast, or history buff, there are niche establishments littered throughout the city for you to explore.
This article highlights some of these hidden gems to help you plan the perfect trip or tour around the state.
So, get ready to pack your bags and embark on an adventure you’ll never forget.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Attractions in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Chicago, Illinois
1. The Hideout (Artistic Hub Since 1934)
Calling a niche spot “The Hideout” seems pretty apt, right?
Since it was founded in 1934, The Hideout has served as a space for creatives and people seeking artistic rebellion and creative freedom.
This Chicago dive bar is a hub for bands and musicians known for their alternative style in any genre of music, whether it’s punk rock, country, or indie.
Hidden in an industrial area between Nobel Square and West Town, it’s easy to miss it if you don’t already know about it.
The bar has a sketchy outward appearance and can pass off as the entrance to an ordinary house.
It also hosts regular events for the benefit of the community.
Good music, excellent service, and a commitment to the local community.
What’s not to love?
Address: 1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago, IL.
2. Graceland Cemetery (Historical Burial Ground)
Established in 1860, the Graceland Cemetery is an excellent place to see and learn about the city’s rich history.
It provides a window to peek into the city’s storied past.
You can take a self-guided audio tour around the beautiful park-like space and enjoy its elaborate structures, including a historic stone chapel, unique tombs, and amazing statues.
Graceland cemetery is the resting place for some of the biggest names in Chicago history, including America’s first undercover agent Allan Pinkerton, heavyweight champion Jack Johnson, and retailer Marshall Field.
In addition to being a fascinating window into the past, Graceland Cemetery is a licensed arboretum.
So you can enjoy the shady oasis while touring the grounds.
Be sure to get a tree tour map to help you identify the trees!
Address: 4001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
3. International Museum of Surgical Science (Medical History Wonderland)
If you are a medical buff or work in this field, you must have heard about the only museum in North America dedicated to surgery.
Located in a majestic mansion near Lake Michigan, the International Museum of Surgical Science is over 100,000 square feet of public galleries divided across four floors.
Each floor gracefully illustrates the history of medicine and exquisitely displays permanent collections of artifacts and art.
Some exhibits displayed at the museum include an 1821 plaster cast of Napoleon’s death mask, an exclusive collection of trephined skulls, and mural panels painted by Gregorio Calvi di Bergolo.
Whether you’re an expert in the medical field or enjoy visiting museums, this spot is for you.
Be sure to check it out; who knows what you will learn.
Address: 1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL.
4. Garden of the Phoenix (Symbol of US-Japan Friendship)
The Garden of Phoenix, also known as Osaka Garden, is a 130-year-old garden that symbolizes the mutual friendship and respect between the United States and Japan.
In 1893, the Japanese Government built the Phoenix Temple in Jackson Park as its pavilion for the World Fair, and it was left as a gift after the fair ended.
The Ho-o-den (Phoenix Temple) introduced the artistic heritage of Japan to the Americans.
Although the pavilion isn’t there anymore, you can visit this historic site that houses Yoko Ono’s first permanent art installation in North America, SKYLANDING.
The garden also houses the Kasuga Lantern, one of the original lamps that survived from 1893.
Other exciting attractions include a koi pond, waterfalls, authentic Japanese horticulture, and blossoming cherry trees in the spring.
Address: 6300 S Cornell Ave, Chicago, IL
Also see our article on Museums in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Springfield, Illinois
1. Tomb of Mr. Accordion (Defiant Mausoleum Tale)
Everybody enjoys a good story of defiance and braving injustice, so here’s one for you.
Oak Ridge Cemetery has been described as a regal burial ground.
The cemetery serves as the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln and other blue-blooded citizens of Illinois.
At least, it did until 1997.
In 1997, Roy Bertelli, Mr. Accordion, purchased a small triangle plot close to Lincoln’s grave to fulfill his desire to be buried in the Oak Ridge Cemetery.
A couple of weeks later, Roy received a letter informing him the cemetery intended to seize the plot since the sale was a mistake and threatened to pursue legal actions if he refused.
In defiance, he built a mausoleum for himself even though he was still alive.
The mausoleum now houses his remains and is a popular spot for tourists.
You, too, can check it out.
Address: 1441 Monument Avenue, Springfield, IL.
2. The Dana-Thomas House (Frank Lloyd Wright Design)
If you are an architecture enthusiast or like impressive buildings, this is for you.
Also known as the Dana House or the Susan Lawrence Dana House, this impressive architectural masterpiece was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1902.
The house is an amazing example of a Prairie-style home.
This building houses the most extensive collection of original, site-specific art glass and furniture, including delicate art glass light fixtures, stained glass windows, and unique furnishing.
The 35-room mansion has 12,000 square feet of living space, including three main levels and a total of 16 varying levels.
Also, The Dana-Thomas House hosts different events throughout the year.
So, when planning your visit, consider checking the website and picking a date that matches an event you’ll enjoy.
Address: 301 E Lawrence Ave, Springfield, IL.
3. Lincoln’s Lucky Nose (Statue Nose Rub Tradition)
The Lincoln Tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery attracts many tourists each year.
Asides from being the resting place of one of the greatest presidents in the country’s history, people visit the cemetery to touch and rub Lincoln’s nose.
While you can’t literally rub Lincoln’s nose, visitors have made a point of rubbing the nose on the statue of the dead president.
Weird, right?
Well, the act stems from the belief that rubbing a statue’s nose generally brings good luck.
So, rubbing the nose of one of the most successful presidents in American history should be any different.
A little bit of luck doesn’t hurt anybody, right?
When you next visit Springfield, be sure to stock up enough good luck to sustain you till your next trip.
Address: 1500 Monument Ave., Springfield, IL.
Also see our article on Castles in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Peoria, Illinois
1. Peoria Riverfront Museum Community Solar System (World-Record Solar Model)
Although the Peoria area isn’t particularly famous for science, it does hold a world record in that field.
That’s right, Peoria is home to the world’s most complete large-scale solar system model.
The scale factor of this model is 99,000,000:1, and it covers about 6,000 square miles of Central Illinois.
It comprises the Sun, the eight planets, other dwarf planets, and some unnamed comets around the globe.
Visiting the Community Solar System is an excellent opportunity to explore central Illinois.
This is because the planets are spread around Peoria and extend to neighboring cities, including Pekin and Princeville.
Not only do you get to see the most complete large-scale model of the solar system, but you also get to explore different parts of the city.
It sounds like a win-win!
So, gather your family and friends and prepare for an awesome learning adventure.
Who says learning can’t be fun?
Address: 222 SW Washington St, Peoria, IL
2. Peoria Holocaust Memorial (Unique Glass Column Memorial)
The Peoria Holocaust Memorial is the only one in the world.
Located at the corner of Washington and Liberty streets, the Jewish Federation of Peoria created the Memorial, and volunteers of this federation conduct tours for visitors.
The Memorial houses 18-star-shaped columns made of glass.
Interestingly, the columns contain 6 million buttons, representing the Jewish lives lost during the Nazi regime.
Next to the star-shaped columns are five glass triangles containing another 5 million buttons representing the lives of the enemies of the state lost during the Holocaust.
School kids collected each button used in the Memorial during “The Button Project.”
Be sure to visit this historic site at any time.
It is completely free and open 24/7.
Address: 123 SW Washington St, Peoria, IL
3. The Uniroyal Gal (Iconic Statue Tradition)
The Uniroyal Gal was one of the massive statues created for the Uniroyal Tire Company to promote the sale of tires.
This female version of the Muffler Man is a rare sight, with only a few located in different parts of the country.
The giant fiberglass figure, popularly called Vanna Whitewall by the locals, is about 17.5 feet tall and weighs roughly 450 pounds.
You may be wondering what makes this Uniroyal Gal different from the others.
It has been a landmark for locals since the 60s and even survived a car crash.
Also, Vanna Whitewall is said to be the only Uniroyal Gal that can have its clothes removed.
Locals now remove the statue’s clothes each summer to reveal a bright red bikini, symbolizing the beginning of the summer pool season.
Address: 1800 SW Washington St, Peoria, IL.
Also see our article on Small Towns in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Bloomington, Illinois
1. The David Davis Mansion (Lincoln Connection & Gardens)
Completed in 1872, the David Davis Mansion is a model of mid-Victorian taste and style.
Designed by French-born artist Alfred Piquenard, the mansion combines Second Empire and Italianate architectural features.
Also known as Clover Lawn, the mansion was the home of the campaign manager, mentor, and friend of Abraham Lincoln – David Davis.
David Davis was also appointed as a Supreme Court Justice in 1862.
The mansion was donated to the state of Illinois in 1960 and has served as a museum since then.
You can also visit Sarah’s Garden – an ornamental and flower-cutting garden with perennials and heirloom roses.
The garden has over 120 documented plants, some of which are original to the garden.
Fascinating, right?
So, when will you be visiting this national landmark?
Address: 1000 Monroe Drive, Bloomington, IL
2. The Constitution Trail (Versatile Scenic Trail)
Named and dedicated in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the constitution, the Constitution Trail is a joint venture between the Town of Normal and the City of Bloomington.
The 37-mile trail cuts across both communities and connects to different parks and neighborhoods.
It is a perfect space to walk, bike, or jog.
Alternatively, you can take a casual stroll and enjoy the beautiful scenery, especially if you’re a visitor.
In addition to being a recreational trail, the Constitution trail is an essential part of the Bloomington transportation infrastructure, providing a safe and accessible route for people to commute without cars.
The Construction Trail is an amazing gem famous for its versatility, accessibility, and scenic beauty.
Be sure to check it out on your next visit.
Address: Croxton Ave, Bloomington (Bloomington endpoint)
3. Wizard of Oz Dorothy Grave and Statue (Tribute to L. Frank Baum’s Niece)
Bloomington is home to both historic and iconic landmarks.
The Dorothy Grave and Statue fall into the latter category.
It tells the sad but sweet history behind the name of the iconic Wizard of Oz character.
L. Frank Baum named the Wizard of Oz character after his niece, Dorothy Gage, who died when she was five months old.
Young Dorothy was buried in the Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Bloomington.
In 2018, the cemetery hired a sculptor to sculpt Dorothy’s likeness, Toto, and the Yellow Brick Road from an oak tree that died close to young Dorothy’s grave.
The site has become a popular attraction for tourists and visitors visiting the city.
When planning your visit, remember that the cemetery is closed on major holidays, and there’s no admittance from dusk to dawn.
Address: 302 E Miller St, Bloomington, IL
Also see our article on Waterfalls in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Champaign, Illinois
1. Exile on Main St (Indie Music & Pop Culture)
It’s not unusual to find joy in music and art, especially those of the vintage kind.
If that’s your safe place, you’re in for a treat!
Since opening in 2004, Exile on Main St has been the only independent retailer of pop culture and music items in Champaign, IL.
Located at the iconic train station in downtown Champaign, Exile on Main St is home to the best selection of vinyl in all of Champaign.
The little shop also sells vintage items, including CDs, tapes, and video games.
In addition, the shop hosts different live events throughout the year.
When planning your visit, check their website to see if they’re hosting a show you’ll enjoy.
Or, you could pop in and browse their collection.
Who knows what you might find?
Address: 100 N Chestnut St #120, Champaign, IL
2. Japan House (Authentic Japanese Experience)
Prepare to have an authentic Japanese experience without leaving the shores of the United States.
The Japan House is a learning facility in the College of Fine and Applied Arts.
This facility gives you the opportunity to learn about traditional Japanese culture by allowing you to participate and share in various ceremonies and special events throughout the year.
The facility is located at the University of Illinois and includes a tea garden, tea rooms, and a Japanese rock garden.
You can also take different classes, such as Ikebana, Japanese aesthetics, and Japanese tea ceremony, to help you learn more about the culture.
A major attraction is the annual Matsuri Festival featuring traditional Japanese art, music, food, and fireworks.
The Matsuri Festival is a family-friendly event with activities for everyone.
You have to experience it!
Address: 2000 S Lincoln Ave, Urbana, IL.
3. The Virginia Theatre (Historic Theatre & Organ)
Arts and culture have always been fundamental to the greater Champaign County.
So, it’s no surprise that a historic theatre is one of its hidden gems.
The Virginia Theatre opened its doors in 1921 with an electric performance of The Bat.
Since then, it has consistently provided the local community with top-quality cinematic and theatrical entertainment.
If you’re a theatre lover, you can share and appreciate this beautifully-restored landmark’s rich history and significance.
A unique feature of the Virginia Theatre is its original Wurlitzer pipe organ, installed in 1924, which they still use today.
The best part?
You can see and experience this cornerstone in theatre history as the theatre also hosts organ tours.
Come experience theatre like never before.
Address: 203 W Park Ave, Champaign, IL.
4. Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch (Family-Owned Countryside Escape)
Apples have played an important part in human history, from helping to understand gravity to religion and some of the most romantic stories in movie history.
So much so that some people enjoy picking their apples and re-enacting romantic movie scenes.
If you are one of those people, you have to check out the Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch.
The Curtis Orchard and Pumpkin Patch is a family-owned farm just outside the heart of Champaign.
This countryside establishment is the perfect escape from the busy life of the city.
In addition to picking apples and pumpkins, the orchard also offers a variety of outdoor activities, including a petting zoo, corn mazes, and play structures for kids.
You can also visit the Wizard of Oz-themed Flying Monkey Café to enjoy mouth-watering delicacies.
A visit to the orchard is a wholesome experience for the whole family.
So, when will you be visiting?
Address: 3902 S. Duncan Rd, Champaign IL
Also see our article on Ghost Towns in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Galena, Illinois
1. Linmar Gardens (Enchanting Hillside Oasis)
Safely nestled at the end of Prospect Street, Linmar Gardens is one of the easiest places to miss when visiting Galena.
The Gardens is an excellent place to relax and escape the hassles of downtown.
Nestled on a hillside overlooking the city, the three-and-one-half acre garden boasts natural outcroppings expertly enhanced with hand-built terraces.
A visit to this enchanting garden gives you the opportunity to enjoy a vibrant display of flowers that have been artistically arranged throughout the garden.
Linmar Gardens also has various water features, including ponds, flowing brooks, and a 20-foot waterfall.
Other attractions include a sunken garden built in the ruins of one of the first African-American churches in the state and a replica of a mine cut into a limestone wall.
Linmar Gardens is a beautiful and unique treasure that you have to experience.
Address: 504 S Prospect St, Galena, IL
2. Council Hill Station (Historic Bar & Restaurant)
Located in the picturesque countryside of Jo Daviess County, the Council Hill Station is a charming and historic destination with a breathtaking view of the lush greenery and rolling hills surrounding it.
The restored 1850s train station has been remodeled into a bar and Restaurant to provide a unique dining experience for locals and tourists.
With a menu focusing on locally sourced farm-to-table cuisine, the Restaurant at the Station offers delectable home-cooked food that will juggle the fun memories of your childhood.
You can also choose a drink from the carefully curated selection of over 90 beers and beverages.
The Station also hosts live music performances all year round, either in the general store or the barn.
Be sure to stop by and enjoy a meal in this historic establishment!
Address: 6521 N Hill Rd, Scales Mound, IL
3. Valley of Eden Bird Sanctuary (Birdwatcher’s Paradise)
The Valley of Eden Bird Sanctuary is the latest preserve of the Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation.
This sanctuary spans 409 acres of beautiful landscape.
With over 6 miles of trails for you to explore, the primary attraction of the Valley of Eden is the various species of birds that call it home.
During peak viewing season, you have the chance to spot over 100 different species that have been recorded in the area.
While the sanctuary is home to common species, including various woodpeckers, grassland birds, and owls, you may be lucky enough to spot some rare species, such as the bobolink, Henslow’s sparrow, northern harrier, and red-headed woodpecker.
Whether you are a novice or an expert birder, the Valley of Eden is a paradise for bird lovers.
Address: 5559 E Rush Creek Rd, Stockton, IL
4. West Street Sculpture Park (Art & Nature Fusion)
Why choose between enjoying art and nature when you can have both?
West Street Sculpture Park is what you get when you dedicate an outdoor gallery to a particular artist.
The park is a beautiful, natural two-acre plot with over a dozen huge welded steel sculptures by award-winning local artist John Martinson.
His works provide a steely contrast to the natural beauty of the grasses and trees, providing a fascinating expression of art and nature.
Some of the notable pieces in the park are two 40-foot towers, a giant tinker toy, and other humorous assemblages.
Interestingly, the artist maintains a small onsite workshop and may occasionally have a friendly chat with visitors, which is a pretty neat bonus.
What is more?
Admission is completely free!
Be sure to drop by and pick up a souvenir on your way out.
Address: 620 S. West St, Galena, IL.
Also see our article on Safari in Illinois.
Hidden Gems in Aurora, Illinois
1. David L. Pierce Art and History Centre (City’s Art & History Hub)
The David L. Pierce Art and History Centre is one of the oldest buildings in downtown Aurora.
It is a three-story limestone-faced building remodeled into a public museum in 1996.
Named after the former mayor in 2003, the building is home to the Aurora Public Art Commission and the Aurora Historical Society.
The building houses a collection of books, photographs, maps, and other memorabilia of the city’s history.
Each floor tells a story of art and history peculiar to the Aurora people.
On the first floor, you can purchase various Aurora-themed items from the gift shop.
The second floor features the “Aurora Story” that takes you through the city’s eclectic past and highlights vintage and iconic relics.
Finally, the last floor features rotating exhibits hosted by the Public Art Commission.
Address: 20 E. Downer Pl, Aurora, IL.
2. Blackberry Farm (Family-Friendly Historical Farm)
Nestled atop 54 picturesque acres of land, Blackberry Farm is a family-friendly location that features a variety of activities for all ages.
Originally located along the Fox River, the farm was built by William Wagner.
The farm features amusement rides, live animal exhibits, and a living history museum that display’s the city’s past through exhibits, demonstrations, and an extensive collection of artifacts.
You can perform multiple activities on the farm, depending on the weather.
On a warm sunny day, you can enjoy unlimited rides on the hay wagon, train, paddle boats, pedal tractors, ponies, and carousel.
And when the snow covers the ground, you get to explore the ice skating rink on the farm.
It doesn’t matter when you visit; a trip to the Blackberry farm is guaranteed to be fun!
Address: 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora, Illinois
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Mini Golf, Churches, and Castles in Illinois.
Looking beyond Illinois? Check out our article on the Hidden Gems in Texas and California.